Eastward
2021
- role-playing (rpg)
- simulator
- adventure
- indie
- action
- science fiction
- single player
The story
Eastward is a beautifully detailed and charming adventure RPG, from Shanghai-based indie developers, Pixpil and published by Chucklefish. Escape the tyrannical clutches of a subterranean society and join Eastward’s unlikely duo on an exciting adventure to the land above! Discover beautiful yet bizarre settlements and make new friends as you travel across the world by rail. Inspired by 90s Japanese animation, the visual style of Eastward has been brought to life using a combination of a modern, innovative 3D lighting system and a rich retro-pixel artwork.
What it’s like
Rich retro pixel art lit by a modern 3D lighting system gives Eastward a glowing, painterly look: sunlit overgrown ruins, warm amber lamplight in cramped underground rooms, and sudden bursts of color in strange, crowded settlements. Its art direction draws on 1990s Japanese animation, so the frames have a hand-made, slightly nostalgic warmth, and the soundtrack leans on lush, melodic orchestration with gentle wistful themes that swell over rail journeys and open landscapes. The vibe is wistful and bittersweet, with a playful, whimsical streak that keeps it from sinking into gloom. It suits a slow weekend afternoon, a comfort replay, or an evening with a controller and a cup of tea. Pacing is unhurried, with a relaxed balance of exploration, light simulation-style chores, and turn-based or real-time combat that stays brief and lightly fought, mostly in the form of stylized clashes with mechanical foes. The emotional register is warm and affectionate, following a gruff, reserved man and a curious young girl slowly building trust and found family as they cross the world. Violence is present but cartoonish and not graphic, with some peril and a dystopian backdrop that is more eerie than frightening. It is for players who want a story-rich adventure with heart, charm, and gorgeous, nostalgic visuals.
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